theglobalsun – Bilal El Khannouss will complete a permanent transfer from Leicester City to VfB Stuttgart this summer after the conditions of his loan agreement were officially met. The 21-year-old joined the Bundesliga side in September on an initial temporary move that included an obligation to buy.
The announcement confirms a successful season for both player and club. Stuttgart sporting director Fabian Wohlgemuth said all required conditions had now been satisfied and expressed the club’s delight at securing El Khannouss on a permanent basis.
For Stuttgart, the move represents an important piece of future planning. For El Khannouss, it offers continuity in a team where he has quickly become an influential figure.
The attacking midfielder originally signed for Leicester from Genk for £21 million in August 2024. He arrived with strong expectations after impressing in Belgium as one of the region’s most promising young talents.
His first season in England, however, proved difficult collectively. El Khannouss scored three goals in 39 appearances across all competitions. But Leicester were unable to avoid relegation from the Premier League.
Following relegation, uncertainty surrounded several players in the squad. A move to Stuttgart gave El Khannouss the opportunity to remain at a high level while continuing his development.
That decision has clearly worked in his favor.
Strong Form in Germany Earns Permanent Deal
This season, El Khannouss has scored eight goals and delivered six assists for Stuttgart. Contributing significantly to one of the club’s strongest campaigns in recent years.
His technical quality, vision, and composure between the lines have helped Stuttgart maintain a place near the top of the Bundesliga table. The club currently sit third in Germany’s top flight.
Operating as an attacking midfielder, he has shown the ability to progress possession, create chances, and contribute directly in the final third.
Stuttgart also made an impressive Europa League run, reaching the round of 16 before being eliminated by FC Porto.
Regular football in both domestic and European competition can be invaluable for a player still only 21 years old. And Stuttgart clearly believe his best years are still ahead.
El Khannouss has also enjoyed success internationally. He was part of the Morocco national football team squad retrospectively declared winners of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after the original final result against Senegal national football team was overturned earlier this month.
That unusual achievement adds another milestone to a career that continues to rise quickly.
For Leicester supporters, losing such a talented young player may be disappointing. But it also reflects the realities clubs often face after relegation when top-flight teams move for key assets.
For Stuttgart fans, confirming the transfer now removes uncertainty and gives the club a creative midfielder to build around moving forward.
Overall, the permanent move appears beneficial for all sides. Stuttgart secure a rising talent, El Khannouss continues progressing in a strong environment, and Leicester gain clarity as they continue rebuilding for the future.
